Chipped teeth are common and can happen in sports or even chewing on something hard. The teeth may also develop chips due to an untreated cavity or a weakened filling. Regardless of how it has occurred, a chipped tooth may not seem like a big deal.

Contrary to popular belief, Broadwaydentalclinic.org.uk and other dental practices in the UK agree that chipping a tooth may actually be a cause for concern.

The Dangers Behind Small to Large Chips

Chipping a tooth means losing valuable tooth structure. It will change the way a person chews and forces the other teeth to overcompensate; it also potentially lays the foundation for additional chips and cracks. Large chips, on the other hand, can lead to severe pain, death of the tooth, and tooth discolouration.

In addition, the deeper the chip, the higher the risk for infection. The broken portion of the chipped tooth could open up to the pulp, which is the inner part of the tooth filled with nerves of blood vessels. Bacteria can enter the pulp and access the bloodstream, causing an infection not only in the mouth, but in the body as well.

Treating a Chipped Tooth

The best way to treat a chip depends on the location of the tooth, as well as the type and the degree of the injury it suffered. If the chip was solely a break to the surface and did not affect the gums, nerves or roots, the dentist, will likely provide an easy and quick cosmetic fix, like a filling or bonding.

Bigger chips that that have damaged a larger part of the structure, on the other hand, may need a crown or a veneer. In some situations, a root canal treatment may be necessary. In this case, visiting the dentist right away is important. The right care and treatment will also provide the best chance of saving the tooth.

Simply put, the most vital thing to remember when suffering from a chipped tooth is that the problem a visit to the dental professional as soon as possible for a proper evaluation and treatment.